Advanced Manufacturing Momentum Builds in Missouri with Van-Am Expansion

• April 14, 2026

Key Takeaways: 

• Van-Am, a metal machining and fabrication company, has announced a $1.5 million expansion in St. Joseph, creating 17 new jobs. 
• The company was recently awarded a new defense contract to produce the MK 41 Vertical Launching System, marking a significant milestone and the introduction of a new product line. 
• As demand for high-precision components and advanced technologies rises, Missouri remains a hub for innovation and industrial growth.

Missouri’s advanced manufacturing sector continues to gain momentum, with companies across the state scaling operations, investing in new technologies, and meeting growing global demand. The latest example comes from St. Joseph, where Van-Am is expanding its footprint and strengthening Missouri’s position as a leader in precision manufacturing and defense production.

Van-Am, a metal machining and fabrication company, has announced a $1.5 million expansion in St. Joseph, creating 17 new jobs. This investment reflects both the company’s growth trajectory and the broader expansion of advanced manufacturing across Missouri—an industry driven by innovation, technical expertise, and a highly skilled workforce.

At the center of this expansion is Van-Am’s MK 41 project, a cutting-edge component currently used by the U.S. Navy. The company was recently awarded a new defense contract to produce the MK 41 Vertical Launching System, marking a significant milestone and the introduction of a new product line. This addition not only enhances Van-Am’s production capabilities but also underscores Missouri’s role in supporting critical national defense infrastructure.

Van-Am’s continued growth highlights the strength of Missouri’s manufacturing ecosystem. With access to a central location, robust supply chains, and a workforce trained in advanced production techniques, companies in Missouri are well-positioned to scale efficiently and compete globally. Strategic investments like this one demonstrate how manufacturers can expand with confidence while meeting the evolving needs of industries like aerospace, defense, and beyond.

Learn about Missouri’s thriving aerospace & defense industry. 

Read the full press release.